Workers who choose jobs in retail settings often appreciate the benefits that come with the retailing environment. Retail can be fast paced, give workers the opportunity to meet new people, and provide a consistent paycheck. Yet retail work can be hazardous, too, accounting for around 3 percent of all workplace illnesses and injuries according to 2016 research from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics (BLS).
If you are employed in a retail occupation, you should be aware of the potential risks that may be associated with your job and possibly lead to injury. Depending upon your position, you may face any of the following hazards regularly.
Back and Neck Injuries
One of the most prevalent responsibilities of many types of retail workers is picking up, stocking, or loading merchandise. The merchandise may be heavy and bulky. Even if it is light, the repetitive motions of bending and standing for hours can lead to strains, sprains, and chronic pain in the back, neck, shoulders, and beyond.
It is worth noting that an acute back or neck injury related to a single event or action can be easier to spot than one that develops over time. For instance, if you pick up a heavy box and pinch a nerve, you will probably know right away. However, if your back muscles, ligaments, and tendons become injured or strained over time, you may experience a less immediate physical response.
Foot Injuries
Being on your feet all day is a standard expectation of a retail job. Whether you are moving around in a busy warehouse or are on the shop floor assisting customers, your feet can take the brunt of the impact or strain from hours of standing and walking. Case in point: plantar fasciitis, a condition that causes pain at the bottom of the foot, is a well-known problem for retail employees who stand most of the time.
You also might be in danger of having your foot crushed or broken if you are lifting and putting down items that weigh quite a bit. Having an object fall on your foot can lead to damage to the toes, heel, balls of the feet, or ankle.
Slipping and Falling Injuries
Workers’ compensation lawyers handle many occupational slip and fall cases on behalf of clients who work in retail. In fact, slips and falls are one of the three most common retail injuries according to BLS figures. A typical retail stockroom or establishment can present plenty of slip and fall opportunities. These may include anything from poor lighting and wet floors to untreated surfaces and unstable ladders.
Depending upon the intensity of a slip or fall, a retail worker could experience anything from bruising to a bone break. The severity of the injury could leave an employee unable to return to work for many weeks or months.
Cuts From Sharp Objects
Retail employees are often tasked with opening boxes and merchandise. To make their jobs easier, they may use utility knives or box cutters. These types of knives are particularly heavy-duty and sharp so that they can slice through heavy cardboard and plastics. Accordingly, they can be quite dangerous.
Even cutting the skin a little can lead to problems like serious infections and nerve damage. Cuts need to be attended to promptly and thoroughly.
Stress and Violence in the Workplace
Retail atmospheres involve the interaction between people. Employees may spend their days engaging with coworkers, bosses, and the public. Unfortunately, not everyone will be in a positive mood.
These conditions can lead to a workplace becoming stressful, violent, or both. It sometimes can be challenging to get a workers’ compensation claim accepted for workplace violence, stress, or bullying. A workers’ compensation lawyer may be able to help in cases where clear-cut evidence can be presented to support the claim.
Repetitive Stress Injuries
Retail workers often perform the same movements throughout the day. For example, a retail employee may transfer boxes all day from the floor to shelves. Over time, these movements can lead to problematic, nagging repetitive stress injuries.
One type of prominent repetitive stress injury is carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome affects the hands, making it painful to perform everyday movements like typing or grasping. The good news is that with rest and treatment, carpal tunnel syndrome frequently can be cured or managed.
Suggestions to Avoid Retail Safety Risks
While some retail injuries such as slipping or being exposed to a violent situation cannot be avoided, others can be mitigated. If you work in retail, consider implementing these strategies to lower your risk of getting hurt on the job.
- Concentrate on each task.
- Exercise away from work so you have more stamina.
- Follow all proper bending and lifting procedures.
- Keep a steady pace and try not to rush through activities.
- Remain aware of your surroundings and avoid distractions.
- Stay hydrated.
- Stop the activity you are doing if you feel pain or discomfort.
- Take breaks to avoid overexertion.
- Tell your supervisor about any hazards you notice.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).
What to Do If You Are Injured While Working in Retail?
What happens if you become injured while in your retail job? Taking the right steps can help you recover faster. First, make sure that you see a healthcare provider as soon as possible. This is critical for two reasons. First, it allows you to start healing. Secondly, it establishes a pattern that suggests your injury related to your occupation.
Next, talk to your supervisor about submitting a workers’ compensation claim. Your employer should have a process set up. Do not delay in talking with your managerial team about your injury or you could run into problems related to deadlines.
Finally, reach out to a skilled workers’ compensation lawyer if your claim is denied. You can appeal all denials without the help of a lawyer, of course, but it is always helpful to speak with a lawyer about your rights.
Retail jobs can be rewarding and lucrative. They also can give you the experience you need to move up the ladder and reach your career goals. Just be aware that as a retail worker, you are covered by workers’ compensation benefits in the event that you need them.
New Jersey Cherry Hill Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Pietras Saracino Smith & Meeks, LLP Routinely Fight for the Rights of Injured Retail Workers
Was your retail injury workers’ compensation claim denied? The appeals process can be complicated to navigate successfully. Call one of our Cherry Hill workers’ compensation lawyers at Pietras Saracino Smith & Meeks, LLP to discuss your options. Call us at 856-751-7676 or contact us online. Our team serves clients across the region in Maple Shade, Camden, Delran, Pennsauken, Cinnaminson, and throughout South Jersey.
